Oman

Royal Oman Police marks Police Day today

 
MUSCAT: The Royal Oman Police (ROP) is celebrating its annual Police Day on January 5, with a special event organised under the auspices of Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal al Busaidy, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court. The event will take place at the military parade ground at the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences in Nizwa, where a number of newly graduated police officers will be inducted into the force.

To commemorate this significant occasion, the Security Relations and Media Department of the ROP will showcase a unique collection of artwork titled 'National Pride,' highlighting the pivotal role the police force has played in maintaining law and order in Oman. This event reflects the continued commitment of the ROP to ensuring the safety and security of citizens and expatriates, as well as facilitating essential documentation services for the well-being of the community.

The ROP Day holds a special place in the country’s history, with the force being recognised for its professionalism and responsibility in law enforcement. It was first declared on January 5, 1980, by the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, who officially named the force the 'Royal Oman Police' during a ceremony marking the force’s establishment in 1970.

The ROP has earned a distinguished position among world police forces due to its discipline and effective law enforcement. Since its inception, the ROP has expanded its scope and now includes various General Directorates that offer vital services to both citizens and residents. These include the Directorate General of Civil Status, Directorate General for Combating Drugs & Psychotropic Substances, Directorate General of Operations, Directorate General of Customs, Directorate General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations, Directorate General of Human Resources, and Directorate General of Traffic, among others.

The Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences, along with several directorates, plays a key role in supporting the ROP’s mission, with specialised departments in areas such as airport security, financial affairs, logistics, information technology, police aviation and medical services.

Citizens and expatriates alike benefit from the ROP's services, which include civil status card issuance, electronic customs services, online traffic services, vehicle registration renewal and visa application processing, all designed to make services more accessible and efficient.

Since joining Interpol in 1972, the ROP has made significant strides in international cooperation. The force continues to invest in technological advancements such as crime analysis systems, digital forensics, traffic management systems and online services to improve its efficiency and service delivery. The ROP’s state-of-the-art helicopter fleet, used for firefighting, medical emergencies and rescue operations, is just one example of how the force is integrating modern technology to enhance its capabilities.

In 2024, the ROP was awarded the 'Best Institution for Digital User Experience and Beneficiary Satisfaction' and 'Best Digital Government Service Provided to the Business Sector' for its innovative Bayan Application. These accolades demonstrate the ROP's commitment to digital transformation and its ongoing efforts to improve public service delivery.

The Royal Oman Police continues to set new standards in law enforcement, public safety and technological innovation, cementing its role as a leader in Oman’s digital and security sectors.